Bears’ Marshall: I’ve Learned To Be More Unselfish

DETROIT, MI - DECEMBER 30: Brandon Marshall #15 of the Chicago Bears runs for a first down during the fourth quarter of the game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on December 30, 2012 in Detroit, Michigan. The Bears defeted the Lions 26-24. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images)

Brandon Marshall. (Leon Halip/Getty Images)

(CBS) Fresh off a press conference to announce a three-year contract extension that will bring his payday to nearly $40 million over the next four seasons, Bears receiver Brandon Marshall told the McNeil and Spiegel Show on Thursday afternoon that he has no problem taking a backseat to fellow wideout Alshon Jeffery if the game dictates such.

“That’s our offense,” Marshall said. “It’s not just about (me). He did that last year, you know, I think he had more yards than me.

“The way our offense is built, it’s not about Alshon or myself. It’s also about Martellus (Bennett), Marquess (Wilson), Matt Forte. It’s about spreading the ball around. I think we get the bulk of the targets, but it’s never a situation where coach tries to force me the ball or Alshon.

“If If they’re taking me out, we’ll go to Alshon more.

Marshall had 100 receptions, 1,295 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns last year, while Jeffery broke out in his second season, with 89 catches for 1,421 yards and seven touchdowns. Marshall also viewed the season as a landmark one for himself in the maturation process.

“That’s something I learned last year,” Marshall said. “Last year was the first time I’ve ever been selfless, as far as my approach to the game, when it comes to my statistics. That’s why we’re going to be successful here. Alshon is the same way. Martellus is the same way. Matt Forte is the same way. Jay Cutler is the same way. I think if you want to win in this game, you have to have guys that really see the big picture and buy in, and I think we have that here.”